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Abilene ranked as top city for veterans to settle

Abilene, Texas, was recently ranked one of the best cities in the nation for those leaving military service and for veterans, according to the rankings released Thursday by Navy Federal Credit Union in partnership with Sperling’s BestPlaces.

The “Best Cities After Service” list was determined using an analysis of 11 factors — including veteran-specific metrics and general quality of life measures — according to a release provided by the credit union. While the study examined the entire veteran community, it was specifically designed to help people who recently left active duty make the transition to civilian life.

The rankings highlight “pockets of prosperity” for the estimated quarter-million military members who transition to civilian life annually, the release quotes Robert Frick, corporate economist for Navy Federal.

“Personal success is much easier when the economy around you is healthy, and a healthy economy is also a major factor in a better quality of life,” Frick is quoted in the release.

Among the metrics used to determine the top-ranking locations: veteran income rates, veteran unemployment rates, proximity to VA hospitals, affordability and college education access.

For more information and for a complete list of the top 20 locations, click here.